Nearly one in 10 Australians believe violence can be justified for a political cause, as many lose faith in government and mainstream leaders.
A nationwide survey of more than 4,000 people found just over half were satisfied with how democracy worked, while a little over one third said they trusted federal politicians.
Almost nine per cent of those surveyed agreed violence could be justified for political causes, including a small share who strongly agreed with that position, according to the inaugural McKinnon Index released on Sunday.
The findings follow rising violence at political rallies in major cities, with police and protesters injured at anti-immigration and pro-Palestinian events.
"This index shows that while our institutions are largely respected, too many Australians feel their leaders are not listening or delivering," McKinnon chief executive and former NSW Liberal premier Mike Baird said.
"Trust is the foundation of effective government — rebuilding it is essential for a fairer, stronger Australia."
The new, annual McKinnon survey has been set up to measure the nation's democratic health, assessing trust in leaders, the effectiveness of governments and confidence in the court and legal systems.
It showed that more than three quarters of Australians believed democracy was preferable to any other form of government, with more than half confident in the integrity and effectiveness of the courts and public institutions.
The survey of more than 4,400 people showed state politicians were considered more trustworthy than their federal counterparts, but confidence varied widely between jurisdictions.
Trust in the federal government was highest in the ACT, at more than 50 per cent, while Queenslanders were the most disillusioned, with just over 30 per cent saying they trusted national authorities.
Among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians, faith in the federal government fell to just 18.5 per cent.
Faith in politicians was also weak, with only 36 per cent of people nationwide saying they trusted federal MPs.
Across the country, less than 50 per cent considered elections free and fair, while 17 per cent admitted they only vote to avoid fines.
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